Harden relishing leadership role with Rockets

SAN ANTONIO — There were times, in the privacy of his thoughts, Rockets guard James Harden wondered about his ability to handle the new job.

He never spoke of that uncertainty, never showed a sign of doubt, as if the beard served as a mask, there to obscure any concern, especially when he dominated his first two games with the Rockets as no one had after switching teams. But Harden wondered about his readiness for the duties that had immediately shifted his way when he went from sixth man with the Oklahoma City Thunder to leading man with the Rockets.

“I had to find out and I had to find out quick,” Harden said. “Not starting, coming off the bench and being a third or fourth option — now I have the opportunity to be a first option. I didn’t know what to expect.”

After two months on the job, uncertainty has been replaced by a sense of responsibility, a notion that likely indicates more about NBA stardom than a place among the league’s scoring leaders or All-Star votes.

Harden’s job, as he reminded with his fourth-quarter romp past the Timberwolves on Wednesday, is to win. That’s the difference, he said, between his roles now and before, when he could steal some scenes but would never supplant Kevin Durant or Russell Westbrook as the stars.

“It’s responsibility,” he said. “That’s my job.”

With the Thunder, he could get on a roll as he did Wednesday, but would then have to step aside for Durant or Westbrook to close out games. Reminded of the game he eviscerated the Rockets last season only to have Oklahoma City stop running his pick-and-roll in the final four minutes of a Thunder loss, Harden said, “There were a lot of games like that.”

Not anymore. When he scored 17 points in the fourth quarter Wednesday, it was the second time he scored so many down the stretch this season, having put up 18 in Atlanta in the fourth quarter of the season’s second game.

Points binge no surprise
In the last five seasons, only five other Rockets have scored so many points in the fourth quarter — Tracy McGrady, Yao Ming, Von Wafer, Kevin Martin and Toney Douglas — and they did it once each.

But with Harden, his was not a sudden or even surprising run. In the past 10 games, Harden has averaged 29.6 points on 51.8 percent shooting and 91.2 percent free-throw shooting. He has topped 20 points in each of those games, having never before put together more than two 20-point games.

But more than any of that, he has made subtle adjustments to his role as a go-to scorer, moving the ball more quickly and picking his spots more carefully with the knowledge there will always be more chances; the ball will always find him.

“I did not really adjust my game, except to be more efficient in my playmaking while scoring the basketball,” Harden, 23, said. “I’ve always been a playmaker, but I have a lot more opportunities with the ball in my hands to make plays for my entire team for an entire game. A lot more opportunities come with a lot more responsibility.

“It’s a good thing, but it’s difficult at the same time. You have to still get your points and be productive, but you have to make plays for your teammates. I just try to be aggressive and get to the basket. I think if I’m aggressive and get to the basket, it’s going to open up everything. It’s going to open up my jump shot and open up guys with defenders helping off.”

This is not different from his role off the Thunder bench when he was often the playmaker of the second unit. But that was often against opposing teams’ backups, with their best defenders usually tied to Durant’s playing time.

When the Heat trapped him last season or the Thunder did this season, he was unable to carry his team. But Rockets coach Kevin McHale has seen Harden grow into the job.

Defenses keying in
“It’s a lot harder … when you’re the No. 1 guy on the scouting report and every defense is geared to stopping you,” McHale said. “And you’re getting the top defender for 40 minutes … every single night, which is a huge difference.

“When he’s able to play downhill and at pace before the defense gets set he’s just a handful. I mean, he’s a great finisher around the basket. He’s a great free-throw shooter. He’s got a knack for getting fouled. And when we have spacing, he’s a very willing passer.

“He’s actually probably better than I thought he was and I was a big fan of his. He sees stuff you have to be a very, very gifted player to see. He’ll make plays you go, ‘Wow, that’s a hell of a pass.’ ”

All that could make him a likely All-Star pick. Fourth in the Western Conference balloting behind Kobe Bryant, Chris Paul and Jeremy Lin, Harden could be the first Rockets player selected by the coaches since Clyde Drexler in 1997.

“The recognition, not only from fans, but from coaches would mean a lot,” Harden said. “The whole getting traded thing and a place (on the All-Star team) in my first year in Houston, with the All-Star Game there, would definitely mean a lot. To represent the city would definitely mean a lot.”

It would be another sign of stardom that goes beyond numbers, but speak to his role and a job he had to experience to understand.

“When you’re recognized in this league, it’s tough to be consistent and productive every single game,” Harden said. “I really did not know how I’d do, but I just knew my work ethic and basketball knowledge would carry me.”

Friday: Rockets at Spurs

When/where: 7:30 p.m.; AT&T Center.

TV/radio: CSNH; 790 AM, 740 AM, 850 AM (Spanish).

Rockets (16-12) update: The Rockets have won their past three road games, sweeping a back-to-back in Chicago and Minneapolis and taking their first road win against a Western Conference team. … The Rockets are 0-2 against the Spurs this season, losing in overtime at Toyota Center in a game James Harden missed. The Rockets have a season-high, five-game winning streak, but have lost their past six games in San Antonio and 10 consecutive road games against Southwest Division teams. … The win in Minneapolis was the Rockets’ 35th in a row when holding an opponent to fewer than 90 points.

Spurs (22-8) update: The Spurs are 11-2 at home. … The Spurs are third in the NBA in scoring (105 points per game), second in field-goal accuracy (48 percent) and fourth in 3-point percentage (38.7). … The Spurs have a league-high six players averaging in double figures scoring. … Kawhi Leonard, who is averaging 10.8 points and leads the Spurs in steals, did not play the first two games against the Rockets. … Guard Gary Neal (strained right calf) is day-to-day.

<b><center>May 3: Thunder 103, Rockets 94</b></center><br>The Rockets season came to a close in front of a rowdy crowd at Toyota Center as the Thunder closed out the best-of-seven series in Game 6.<br>
<b>Thunder win series 4-2</b> less

<b><center>May 3: Thunder 103, Rockets 94</b></center><br>The Rockets season came to a close in front of a rowdy crowd at Toyota Center as the Thunder closed out the best-of-seven series in Game ... more

Photo: Smiley N. Pool / Houston Chronicle

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<b><center>May 1: Rockets 107, Thunder 100</b></center>
The Rockets kept their playoff lives alive by knocking off OKC, at home, in a hostile environment.
<b>Thunder lead series 3-2</b> less

<b><center>May 1: Rockets 107, Thunder 100</b></center>
The Rockets kept their playoff lives alive by knocking off OKC, at home, in a hostile environment.
<b>Thunder lead series ... more

Photo: Smiley N. Pool / Houston Chronicle

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<b><center>April 29: Rockets 105, Thunder 103</b></center>
Chandler Parsons led the way as the NBA's youngest team won its first playoff game against Oklahoma City.
<b>Thunder lead series 3-1</b> less

<b><center>April 29: Rockets 105, Thunder 103</b></center>
Chandler Parsons led the way as the NBA's youngest team won its first playoff game against Oklahoma City.
<b>Thunder lead series ... more

Photo: Smiley N. Pool / Houston Chronicle

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<b><center>April 27: Thunder 104, Rockets 101</b></center>
Houston rallied from a tremendous deficit but could not stop Kevin Durant in the closing minutes.
<b>Thunder lead series 3-0</b> less

<b><center>April 27: Thunder 104, Rockets 101</b></center>
Houston rallied from a tremendous deficit but could not stop Kevin Durant in the closing minutes.
<b>Thunder lead series ... more

Photo: James Nielsen / Houston Chronicle

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<b><center>April 24: Thunder 105, Rockets 102</b></center><br>
Houston was much improved in its second playoff game, but couldn't put the finishing touches on a fourth-quarter rally.
<br><b>Thunder lead series 2-0</b> less

<b><center>April 24: Thunder 105, Rockets 102</b></center><br>
Houston was much improved in its second playoff game, but couldn't put the finishing touches on a fourth-quarter rally.
<br><b>Thunder lead ... more

Photo: Smiley N. Pool / Houston Chronicle

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<b><center>April 21: Thunder 120, Rockets 91</b></center><br>
The Rockets fell into a 1-0 hole against the No. 1 Thunder after an embarrassing loss in Oklahoma City to open the series.
<br><b>Thunder lead series 1-0</b> less

<b><center>April 21: Thunder 120, Rockets 91</b></center><br>
The Rockets fell into a 1-0 hole against the No. 1 Thunder after an embarrassing loss in Oklahoma City to open the series.
<br><b>Thunder lead ... more

<b><center>April 15: Suns 119, Rockets 112</b></center>
The Rockets couldn't knock off the lowly Suns in Phoenix as the regular season nears its end.
<b>Record:</b> 45-36. less

<b><center>April 15: Suns 119, Rockets 112</b></center>
The Rockets couldn't knock off the lowly Suns in Phoenix as the regular season nears its end.
<b>Record:</b> ... more

Photo: Matt York / Associated Press

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<b><center>April 14: Rockets 121, Kings 100</b></center>The Rockets took care of the Kings in the regular season home finale behind James Harden's 29 points.
<b>Record:</b> 45-35. less

<b><center>April 14: Rockets 121, Kings 100</b></center>The Rockets took care of the Kings in the regular season home finale behind James Harden's 29 points.
<b>Record:</b> ... more

Photo: Smiley N. Pool / Houston Chronicle

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<b><center>April 12: Grizzlies 82, Rockets 78</b></center>
A 30-point performance by James Harden wasn't enough for Houston to finish the comeback against Memphis.
<b>Record:</b> 44-35. less

<b><center>April 12: Grizzlies 82, Rockets 78</b></center>
A 30-point performance by James Harden wasn't enough for Houston to finish the comeback against Memphis.
<b>Record:</b> ... more

Photo: Smiley N. Pool / Houston Chronicle

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<b><center>April 9: Rockets 101, Suns 98</b></center>
The Rockets came away with a win against the Suns after James Harden's last second 3-pointer was counted due to goaltending by Suns center Jermaine O'Neal.
<b>Record:</b> 44-34. less

<b><center>April 9: Rockets 101, Suns 98</b></center>
The Rockets came away with a win against the Suns after James Harden's last second 3-pointer was counted due to goaltending by Suns center Jermaine ... more

Photo: Smiley N. Pool / Houston Chronicle

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<b><center>April 6: Nuggets 132, Rockets 114</b></center>
Houston had trouble containing an athletic Denver team, losing all four games to the Nuggets this season.
<b>Record:</b> 43-34. less

<b><center>April 6: Nuggets 132, Rockets 114</b></center>
Houston had trouble containing an athletic Denver team, losing all four games to the Nuggets this season.
<b>Record:</b> ... more

<b><center>April 1: Rockets 111, Magic 103</b></center>
Omer Asik (22 points and 18 rebounds) led the Harden and Parson-less Rockets to a huge first half lead and then let the backups take care of business in the fourth quarter against the lowly Magic.
<b>Record:</b> 41-33. less

<b><center>April 1: Rockets 111, Magic 103</b></center>
Omer Asik (22 points and 18 rebounds) led the Harden and Parson-less Rockets to a huge first half lead and then let the backups take care of business in ... more

<b><center>March 29: Grizzlies 103, Rockets 94</b></center>
With the loss, Memphis moved up 2-1 over Houston in the season series.
<b>Record:</b> 39-33.

<b><center>March 29: Grizzlies 103, Rockets 94</b></center>
With the loss, Memphis moved up 2-1 over Houston in the season series.
<b>Record:</b> 39-33.

Photo: Danny Johnston / Associated Press

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<b><center>March 27: Pacers 100, Rockets 91</b></center>
Indiana is the NBA's top defensive unit and they came to Houston and effectively shut down the league's top offensive unit.
<b>Record:</b> 39-32. less

<b><center>March 27: Pacers 100, Rockets 91</b></center>
Indiana is the NBA's top defensive unit and they came to Houston and effectively shut down the league's top offensive unit.
<b>Record:</b> ... more

Photo: James Nielsen / Houston Chronicle

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<b><center>March 24: Rockets 96, Spurs 95</b></center>
James Harden hit the game-winning jumper with just under five seconds left as the Rockets held off the Spurs in the heat of the playoff race.
<b>Record:</b> 39-31. less

<b><center>March 24: Rockets 96, Spurs 95</b></center>
James Harden hit the game-winning jumper with just under five seconds left as the Rockets held off the Spurs in the heat of the playoff ... more

Photo: Smiley N. Pool / Houston Chronicle

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<b><center>March 22: Rockets 116, Cavaliers 78</b></center>
Houston's reserve players got to play in the fourth quarter and the Rockets took control against Cleveland long before the end of regulation.
<b>Record:</b> 38-31. less

<b><center>March 22: Rockets 116, Cavaliers 78</b></center>
Houston's reserve players got to play in the fourth quarter and the Rockets took control against Cleveland long before the end of ... more

<b><center>March 20: Rockets 100, Jazz 93</b></center>
The Rockets watched a 19-point lead after three quarters shrink quickly in the closing minutes, but thanks to some clutch drives by Jeremy Lin and great free throw shooting by James Harden they were able to hold on for their 37th victory of the season.
<b>Record:</b> 37-31. less

<b><center>March 20: Rockets 100, Jazz 93</b></center>
The Rockets watched a 19-point lead after three quarters shrink quickly in the closing minutes, but thanks to some clutch drives by Jeremy Lin and great ... more

Photo: James Nielsen / Houston Chronicle

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<b><center>March 17: Warriors 108, Rockets 78</b></center>
A cold start from the field led to the worst loss of the season for James Harden and Co.
<b>Record:</b> 36-31.

<b><center>March 17: Warriors 108, Rockets 78</b></center>
A cold start from the field led to the worst loss of the season for James Harden and Co.
<b>Record:</b> 36-31.

<b><center>March 12: Rockets 111, Suns 81</b></center>
The Rockets avenged a loss against the Suns three days earlier by putting up 111 points, beating Phoenix by 30 and scoring 50 points in the paint.
<b>Record:</b> 35-30. less

<b><center>March 12: Rockets 111, Suns 81</b></center>
The Rockets avenged a loss against the Suns three days earlier by putting up 111 points, beating Phoenix by 30 and scoring 50 points in the ... more

Photo: Billy Smith II / Houston Chronicle

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<b><center>March 9: Suns 107, Rockets 105</b></center>
The Rockets had plenty of reason to be frustrated after losing to Phoenix.
<b>Record:</b> 34-30.

<b><center>March 9: Suns 107, Rockets 105</b></center>
The Rockets had plenty of reason to be frustrated after losing to Phoenix.
<b>Record:</b> 34-30.

Photo: Paul Connors / Associated Press

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<b><center>March 8: Rockets 94, Warriors 88</b></center>
The Rockets beat Golden State the third time this year to win the season series.
<b>Record:</b> 34-29.

<b><center>March 8: Rockets 94, Warriors 88</b></center>
The Rockets beat Golden State the third time this year to win the season series.
<b>Record:</b> 34-29.

Photo: Dan Honda / Contra Costa Times/MCT

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<b><center>March 6: Mavericks 112, Rockets 108</b></center>
The Mavericks got the revenge they were seeking after the Rockets' 30-point blowout Sunday night. The Rockets still haven't won in Dallas since 2009.
<b>Record:</b> 33-29. less

<b><center>March 6: Mavericks 112, Rockets 108</b></center>
The Mavericks got the revenge they were seeking after the Rockets' 30-point blowout Sunday night. The Rockets still haven't won in Dallas since ... more

Photo: Tony Gutierrez / Associated Press

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<b><center>March 3: Rockets 136, Mavericks 103</b></center>
The Rockets had plenty to be happy about in this one - including a 44-point third quarter in which they out-scored the Mavericks by 27 points and put the game out of reach.
<b>Record:</b> 33-28. less

<b><center>March 3: Rockets 136, Mavericks 103</b></center>
The Rockets had plenty to be happy about in this one - including a 44-point third quarter in which they out-scored the Mavericks by 27 points and ... more

<b><center>Feb. 27: Bucks 110, Rockets 107</b></center>
Monta Ellis had something to celebrate after hitting a game-winning buzzer-beating three to knock off the Rockets at Toyota Center.
<b>Record:</b> 31-28. less

<b><center>Feb. 27: Bucks 110, Rockets 107</b></center>
Monta Ellis had something to celebrate after hitting a game-winning buzzer-beating three to knock off the Rockets at Toyota Center.
<b>Record:</b> ... more

Photo: Billy Smith II / Houston Chronicle

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<b><center>Feb. 23: Wizards 105, Rockets 103</b></center>
Chandler Parsons scored 24 points in Washington and the Rockets shot 46 threes (third most all-time) but still lost to the lowly Wizards.
<b>Record:</b> 31-27. less

<b><center>Feb. 23: Wizards 105, Rockets 103</b></center>
Chandler Parsons scored 24 points in Washington and the Rockets shot 46 threes (third most all-time) but still lost to the lowly ... more

Photo: Alex Brandon / Associated Press

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<b><center>Feb. 22: Rockets 106, Nets 96</b></center>
The Rockets continued their dominance over the Nets as they pulled away late in the fourth quarter to get their 13th consecutive win over them.
<b>Record:</b> 31-26. less

<b><center>Feb. 22: Rockets 106, Nets 96</b></center>
The Rockets continued their dominance over the Nets as they pulled away late in the fourth quarter to get their 13th consecutive win over ... more

<b><center>Feb. 8: Rockets 118, Trail Blazers 103</b></center>
James Harden was unstoppable in the last game at Toyota Center before the All-Star break, scoring 35 points while only shooting 16 shots.
<b>Record:</b> 28-24. less

<b><center>Feb. 8: Rockets 118, Trail Blazers 103</b></center>
James Harden was unstoppable in the last game at Toyota Center before the All-Star break, scoring 35 points while only shooting 16 ... more

Photo: Smiley N. Pool / Houston Chronicle

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<b><center>Feb. 6: Heat 114, Rockets 108</b></center>
The Heat proved to be too much for the Rockets to handle even with James Harden recording 36 points, 12 rebounds and 7 assists.
<b>Record:</b> 27-24. less

<b><center>Feb. 6: Heat 114, Rockets 108</b></center>
The Heat proved to be too much for the Rockets to handle even with James Harden recording 36 points, 12 rebounds and 7 assists.
<b>Record:</b> ... more

<b><center>Feb. 2: Rockets 109, Bobcats 95</b></center>
James Harden's first career triple-double led the Rockets to a hard-fought win against the Bobcats. Patrick Patterson contributed 14 fourth quarter points.
<b>Record:</b> 26-23. less

<b><center>Feb. 2: Rockets 109, Bobcats 95</b></center>
James Harden's first career triple-double led the Rockets to a hard-fought win against the Bobcats. Patrick Patterson contributed 14 fourth quarter ... more

Photo: Nick de la Torre / Chronicle

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<b><center>Jan. 30: Nuggets 118, Rockets 110</b></center>
James Harden scored 21 points, but Danilo Gallinari's 27 points (15 in the second half) led the Nuggets to the win.
<b>Record:</b> 25-23. less

<b><center>Jan. 30: Nuggets 118, Rockets 110</b></center>
James Harden scored 21 points, but Danilo Gallinari's 27 points (15 in the second half) led the Nuggets to the win.
<b>Record:</b> ... more

Photo: Joe Mahoney / Associated Press

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<b><center>Jan. 26: Rockets 125, Jazz 80</b></center>
Utah had a difficult time containing Houston, as the Rockets won their third consecutive contest. Jeremy Lin had 12 points and seven assists
<b>Record:</b> 25-22. less

<b><center>Jan. 26: Rockets 125, Jazz 80</b></center>
Utah had a difficult time containing Houston, as the Rockets won their third consecutive contest. Jeremy Lin had 12 points and seven ... more

Photo: Rick Bowmer / Associated Press

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<b><center>Jan. 26: Rockets 119, Nets 106</b></center>
The Rockets were unstoppable on offense in this one, putting up 119 points on Brooklyn.
<b>Record:</b> 24-22.

<b><center>Jan. 26: Rockets 119, Nets 106</b></center>
The Rockets were unstoppable on offense in this one, putting up 119 points on Brooklyn.
<b>Record:</b> 24-22.

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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<b><center>Jan. 25: Rockets 100, Hornets 82</b></center>
The Rockets won three out of four games against New Orleans this season.
<b>Record:</b> 23-22.

<b><center>Jan. 25: Rockets 100, Hornets 82</b></center>
The Rockets won three out of four games against New Orleans this season.
<b>Record:</b> 23-22.

Photo: Gerald Herbert / Associated Press

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<b><center>Jan. 23: Nuggets 105, Rockets 95</b></center>
The Nuggets used a 36-22 third quarter differential to coast to an easy win in Houston.
<b>Record:</b> 22-22.

<b><center>Jan. 23: Nuggets 105, Rockets 95</b></center>
The Nuggets used a 36-22 third quarter differential to coast to an easy win in Houston.
<b>Record:</b> 22-22.

<b><center>Jan. 21: Rockets 100, Bobcats 94</b></center>
James Harden scored a team-high 29 points and Carlos Delfino added 16 off the bench as the Rockets snapped their seven-game losing ... more

Photo: Chuck Burton / Associated Press

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<b><center>Jan. 19: Timberwolves 92, Rockets 79</b></center>
Cold shooting and turnovers lead to more losing as the Rockets dropped a seventh game in a row.
<b>Record:</b> 21-21. less

<b><center>Jan. 19: Timberwolves 92, Rockets 79</b></center>
Cold shooting and turnovers lead to more losing as the Rockets dropped a seventh game in a row.
<b>Record:</b> ... more

Photo: Stacy Bengs / Associated Press

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<b><center>Jan. 18: Pacers 105, Rockets 95</b></center>
The Rockets couldn't keep up with the red-hot shooting by the Pacers (46% from the field, 58% for 3s) and fell to 7-13 on the road this season.
<b>Record:</b> 21-20. less

<b><center>Jan. 18: Pacers 105, Rockets 95</b></center>
The Rockets couldn't keep up with the red-hot shooting by the Pacers (46% from the field, 58% for 3s) and fell to 7-13 on the road this ... more

Photo: Darron Cummings / Associated Press

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<b><center>Jan. 16: Mavericks 105, Rockets 100</b></center>
The Rockets were able to tie the game up in the fourth quarter before the Mavericks sealed their fate in the closing minutes. The Rockets have now lost 13 straight games to division opponents when playing away from Toyota Center.
<b>Record:</b> 21-19. less

<b><center>Jan. 16: Mavericks 105, Rockets 100</b></center>
The Rockets were able to tie the game up in the fourth quarter before the Mavericks sealed their fate in the closing minutes. The Rockets have now ... more

Photo: Paul Moseley / McClatchy-Tribune News Service

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<b><center>Jan. 15: Clippers 117, Rockets 109</b></center>
Even without star point guard Chris Paul, Los Angeles made easy work of the Rockets. Houston lost it's fourth consecutive game.
<b>Record:</b> 21-18. less

<b><center>Jan. 15: Clippers 117, Rockets 109</b></center>
Even without star point guard Chris Paul, Los Angeles made easy work of the Rockets. Houston lost it's fourth consecutive game.
<b>Record:</b> ... more

<b><center>Jan. 11: Celtics 103, Rockets 91</b></center>
James Harden's streak of 25 points scored or more ended in Boston. He came up just one point short of extending the streak to 15 games.
<b>Record:</b> 21-16. less

<b><center>Jan. 11: Celtics 103, Rockets 91</b></center>
James Harden's streak of 25 points scored or more ended in Boston. He came up just one point short of extending the streak to 15 games. ... more

Photo: Michael Dwyer / Associated Press

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<b><center>Jan. 9: Hornets 88, Rockets 79</b></center>
Ten fourth quarter points is all the Rockets had to work with, and it wasn't enough to get past the Hornets on their home court.
<b>Record:</b> 21-15. less

<b><center>Jan. 9: Hornets 88, Rockets 79</b></center>
Ten fourth quarter points is all the Rockets had to work with, and it wasn't enough to get past the Hornets on their home court.
<b>Record:</b> ... more

Photo: Jonathan Bachman / Associated Press

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<b><center>Jan. 8: Rockets 125, Lakers 112</b></center>
James Harden had 31 points and the Rockets overcame a slow start for a come-from-behind victory against the Lakers.
<b>Record:</b> 21-14. less

<b><center>Jan. 8: Rockets 125, Lakers 112</b></center>
James Harden had 31 points and the Rockets overcame a slow start for a come-from-behind victory against the Lakers.
<b>Record:</b> ... more

<b><center>Jan. 5: Rockets 112, Cavaliers 104</b></center>
Cleveland guard Kyrie Irving led all scorers with 30 points, but the Rockets continued their dominance against Eastern Conference teams to win their third straight contest.
<b>Record:</b> 20-14. less

<b><center>Jan. 5: Rockets 112, Cavaliers 104</b></center>
Cleveland guard Kyrie Irving led all scorers with 30 points, but the Rockets continued their dominance against Eastern Conference teams to win their ... more

Photo: Tony Dejak / Associated Press

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<b><center>Jan. 4: Rockets 115, Bucks 101</b></center>
James Harden was too much for the Bucks to handle as the Rockets came back from an 11 point halftime deficit to defest the Bucks
<b>Record:</b> 19-14. less

<b><center>Jan. 4: Rockets 115, Bucks 101</b></center>
James Harden was too much for the Bucks to handle as the Rockets came back from an 11 point halftime deficit to defest the Bucks
<b>Record:</b> ... more

Photo: Jeffrey Phelps / Associated Press

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<b><center>Jan. 2: Rockets 104, Hornets 92</b></center>
Patrick Patterson returned to action after missing several games with an injury. He scored 13 of his 15 points in the fourth quarter, leading the Rockets to a win.
<b>Record:</b> 18-14. less

<b><center>Jan. 2: Rockets 104, Hornets 92</b></center>
Patrick Patterson returned to action after missing several games with an injury. He scored 13 of his 15 points in the fourth quarter, leading the ... more

<b><center>Dec. 29: Thunder 124, Rockets 94</b></center>
Russell Westbrook and the Thunder were too much for the Rockets to handle as he scored 28 points to go along with eight assists and eight rebounds.
<b>Record:</b> 16-14. less

<b><center>Dec. 29: Thunder 124, Rockets 94</b></center>
Russell Westbrook and the Thunder were too much for the Rockets to handle as he scored 28 points to go along with eight assists and eight ... more

Photo: Scott Halleran / Getty Images

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<b><center>Dec. 28: Spurs 122, Rockets 116</b></center>
Tim Duncan and the Spurs were too much for the Rockets to handle. Duncan contributed 30 points in this high-scoring affair.
<b>Record:</b> 16-13. less

<b><center>Dec. 28: Spurs 122, Rockets 116</b></center>
Tim Duncan and the Spurs were too much for the Rockets to handle. Duncan contributed 30 points in this high-scoring affair.
<b>Record:</b> ... more

Photo: Eric Gay / Associated Press

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<b><center>Dec. 26: Rockets 87, Timberwolves 84</b></center>
James Harden scored 17 of his 30 points in the fourth quarter and 15 of the Rockets’ final 17 points for the come-from-behind victory in Minnesota.
<b>Record:</b> 16-12. less

<b><center>Dec. 26: Rockets 87, Timberwolves 84</b></center>
James Harden scored 17 of his 30 points in the fourth quarter and 15 of the Rockets’ final 17 points for the come-from-behind victory in ... more

Photo: Jim Mone / Associated Press

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<b><center>Dec. 25: Rockets 120, Bulls 97</b></center>
Omer Asik throws down two of his 20 points against his former team. Asik also had 18 rebounds and three blocks.
<b>Record:</b> 15-12. less

<b><center>Dec. 25: Rockets 120, Bulls 97</b></center>
Omer Asik throws down two of his 20 points against his former team. Asik also had 18 rebounds and three blocks.
<b>Record:</b> ... more

<b><center>Dec. 19: Rockets 125, 76ers 103</b></center>
Jeremy Lin and the Rockets won their second consecutive contest against Philadelphia.
<b>Record:</b> 13-12.

<b><center>Dec. 19: Rockets 125, 76ers 103</b></center>
Jeremy Lin and the Rockets won their second consecutive contest against Philadelphia.
<b>Record:</b> 13-12.

Photo: Dave Einsel / Associated Press

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<b><center>Dec. 17: Rockets 109, Knicks 96</b></center>
Jeremy Lin recorded 22 points, eight assists and four rebounds in his first trip back to New York as a Rocket.
<b>Record:</b> 12-12. less

<b><center>Dec. 17: Rockets 109, Knicks 96</b></center>
Jeremy Lin recorded 22 points, eight assists and four rebounds in his first trip back to New York as a Rocket.
<b>Record:</b> ... more

Photo: Henny Ray Abrams / Getty Images

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<b><center>Dec. 16: Raptors 103, Rockets 96</b></center>
The Rockets' road woes continued as the Raptors pulled away so secure a victory in the closing minutes of the game. Jose Calderon recorded his second career triple double.
<b>Record:</b> 11-12. less

<b><center>Dec. 16: Raptors 103, Rockets 96</b></center>
The Rockets' road woes continued as the Raptors pulled away so secure a victory in the closing minutes of the game. Jose Calderon recorded his second ... more

<b><center>Dec. 7: Spurs 114, Rockets 92</b></center>
Jeremy Lin and the Rockets were an easy opponent for Tony Parker and the Spurs.
<b>Record:</b> 9-9.

<b><center>Dec. 7: Spurs 114, Rockets 92</b></center>
Jeremy Lin and the Rockets were an easy opponent for Tony Parker and the Spurs.
<b>Record:</b> 9-9.

Photo: Eric Gay / Associated Press

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<b><center>Dec. 4: Rockets 107, Lakers 105</b></center>
It wasn't the usual cast of characters who helped the Rockets get past the Lakers. Instead of Jeremy Lin and James Harden it was Toney Douglas and Greg Smith who got the job done.
<b>Record:</b> 9-8. less

<b><center>Dec. 4: Rockets 107, Lakers 105</b></center>
It wasn't the usual cast of characters who helped the Rockets get past the Lakers. Instead of Jeremy Lin and James Harden it was Toney Douglas and Greg ... more

Photo: Melissa Phillip / Houston Chronicle

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<b><center>Dec. 1: Rockets 124, Jazz 116</b></center>
Jeremy Lin had one of his better games in a Rockets jersey, recording 19 points and 8 assists.
<b>Record:</b> 8-8.

<b><center>Dec. 1: Rockets 124, Jazz 116</b></center>
Jeremy Lin had one of his better games in a Rockets jersey, recording 19 points and 8 assists.
<b>Record:</b> 8-8.

Photo: Pat Sullivan / Associated Press

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<b><center>Nov. 28: Thunder 120, Rockets 98</b></center>
James Harden had his worst night in a Rockets uniform, shooting 3-16 from the field against his ex-team.
<b>Record:</b> 7-8. less

<b><center>Nov. 28: Thunder 120, Rockets 98</b></center>
James Harden had his worst night in a Rockets uniform, shooting 3-16 from the field against his ex-team.
<b>Record:</b> ... more

Photo: Sue Ogrocki / Associated Press

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<b><center>Nov. 27: Rockets 117, Raptors 101</b></center>
Guard James Harden had 24 points and 12 assists, which helped the Rockets get back to .500.
<b>Record:</b> 7-7.

<b><center>Nov. 27: Rockets 117, Raptors 101</b></center>
Guard James Harden had 24 points and 12 assists, which helped the Rockets get back to .500.
<b>Record:</b> 7-7.

Photo: James Nielsen / Houston Chronicle

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<b><center>Nov. 23: Rockets 131, Knicks 103</b></center>
Chandler Parsons recorded a career-high 31 points, James Harden added 33 and 9 assists as the Rockets cooled off the Knicks at Toyota Center.
<b>Record:</b> 6-7. less

<b><center>Nov. 23: Rockets 131, Knicks 103</b></center>
Chandler Parsons recorded a career-high 31 points, James Harden added 33 and 9 assists as the Rockets cooled off the Knicks at Toyota ... more

<b><center>Nov. 18: Lakers 119, Rockets 108</b></center>
Kobe Bryant recorded a triple double and Dwight Howard was unstoppable as James Harden and the Rockets rolled over in L.A.
<b>Record:</b> 4-6. less

<b><center>Nov. 18: Lakers 119, Rockets 108</b></center>
Kobe Bryant recorded a triple double and Dwight Howard was unstoppable as James Harden and the Rockets rolled over in L.A.
<b>Record:</b> ... more

Photo: Mark J. Terrill / Associated Press

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<b><center>Nov. 16: Blazers 119, Rockets 117 (OT)</b></center>
The Rocekts fell to the Blazers for the second time this season, both were overtime affairs.
<b>Record:</b> 4-5. less

<b><center>Nov. 16: Blazers 119, Rockets 117 (OT)</b></center>
The Rocekts fell to the Blazers for the second time this season, both were overtime affairs.
<b>Record:</b> ... more

Photo: Don Ryan / Associated Press

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<b><center>Nov. 14: Rockets 100, Hornets 96</b></center>
James Harden returned to his scoring ways as the Rockets withstood the late charge put on by the Hornets.
<b>Record:</b> 4-4. less

<b><center>Nov. 14: Rockets 100, Hornets 96</b></center>
James Harden returned to his scoring ways as the Rockets withstood the late charge put on by the Hornets.
<b>Record:</b> ... more

Photo: Houston Chronicle

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<b><center>Nov. 12: Heat 113, Rockets 110</b></center>
The Houston Rockets rallied back to give the Heat a late scare, but in the end it wasn't enough to knock off the defending champions.
<b>Record:</b> 3-4. less

<b><center>Nov. 12: Heat 113, Rockets 110</b></center>
The Houston Rockets rallied back to give the Heat a late scare, but in the end it wasn't enough to knock off the defending champions.
<b>Record:</b> ... more

Photo: Billy Smith II / Houston Chronicle

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<b><center>Nov. 10: Rockets 96, Pistons 82</b></center>
The Rockets responded well to the absence of their coach, notching their third victory of the year.
<b>Record:</b> 3-3. less

<b><center>Nov. 10: Rockets 96, Pistons 82</b></center>
The Rockets responded well to the absence of their coach, notching their third victory of the year.
<b>Record:</b> ... more

<b><center>Nov. 7: Nuggets 93, Rockets 87</b></center>
The Nuggets came out hot and the Rockets were never able to recover from a slow start. James Harden was held to a season-low 15 points.
<b>Record:</b> 2-2. less

<b><center>Nov. 7: Nuggets 93, Rockets 87</b></center>
The Nuggets came out hot and the Rockets were never able to recover from a slow start. James Harden was held to a season-low 15 points.
<b>Record:</b> ... more

Photo: James Nielsen / Houston Chronicle

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<b><center>Nov. 3: Blazers 95, Rockets 85 (OT) </b></center>
The Rockets had an early lead, but were not able to hold onto it, falling to the Blazers in overtime.
<b>Record:</b> 2-1. less

<b><center>Nov. 3: Blazers 95, Rockets 85 (OT) </b></center>
The Rockets had an early lead, but were not able to hold onto it, falling to the Blazers in overtime.
<b>Record:</b> ... more

Photo: Karen Warren / Houston Chronicle

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<b><center>Nov. 2: Rockets 109, Hawks 102</b></center>
James Harden exploded for a career-high 45 points in the Rockets second win of the season. Jeremy Lin chipped in by scoring 21.
<b>Record:</b> 2-0. less

<b><center>Nov. 2: Rockets 109, Hawks 102</b></center>
James Harden exploded for a career-high 45 points in the Rockets second win of the season. Jeremy Lin chipped in by scoring 21.
<b>Record:</b> ... more

Photo: Hyosub Shin / Atlanta Journal-Constitution/MCT

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<b><center>Oct. 31: Rockets 105, Pistons 96</b></center>
James Harden had a coming out party in Detroit, leading all scorers with 37 points in his Rockets' debut.
<b>Record:</b> 1-0. less

<b><center>Oct. 31: Rockets 105, Pistons 96</b></center>
James Harden had a coming out party in Detroit, leading all scorers with 37 points in his Rockets' debut.
<b>Record:</b> ... more